06.01.2010 | Springfield Fire Department photo by Dennis Leger | Springfield Firefighters work with the "Jaws of Life" to extricate the driver of a two-door Mercedes that slammed into trees and burst into flames in front of 1268 Sumner Avenue late Tuesday evening.

The two 18-year-olds were injured when their car, a 1991 Mercedes Benz sedan, went off the road while heading east on Sumner Avenue. The car hit a tree and a telephone pole, according to police.

Both men were returning home from the Sabis senior prom, which had been held earlier in the evening at Chez Josef in Agawam, school officials said.

Sgt. John M. Delaney said the preliminary investigation shows the accident was the result of excessive speed.

There is no indication that alcohol was involved, he said. There was no evidence of alcohol found in the car, and everyone attending the prom were given a Breathalyzer exam as they entered and exited the banquet facility, Delaney, aide to Police Commissioner William J. Fitchet, said.

The accident remains under investigation by the police Traffic Bureau, Delaney said.

The school has made counseling available for all students, officials said. Callender and Mafuz were scheduled to be among the 69 seniors to graduate Friday.

A senior awards ceremony slated for Wednesday night turned into an impromptu prayer service in honor of Mafuz and Callender.